Bill Leicht

8 Million Stories, a series of short video portraits of New Yorkers. Enjoy!

Here in Episode 1, community activist Bill Leicht tells the story of how he began working with the Ghetto Brothers, one of the largest Bronx street gang of the 1970’s. Bill was introduced to Benjamin ”Yellow Benjy” Melendez, one of the founding members of the Ghetto Brothers, by Evelina Antonetty of the United Bronx Parents. Eventually, Bill became the eldest member of the Ghetto Brothers, witnessing first-hand their struggle to transition from street gang to community group. Bill also offers his perspective on the almost mythical Hoe Avenue Peace Meeting.

The Ghetto Brothers mentioned in this piece is the same group that released the ”Power Fuerza” album on Salsa Records in the early 70’s.

Bill Leicht is still an activist. To see more about his current work go here: